Eyrie Improv – Improvised Burlesque takes the art of tease and turns it on its head, with chaotically sexy results. Usually, burlesque performances require meticulous planning. After all, a surprising amount of work goes into looking effortlessly sexy. In this show, however, making it up on the spot is the name of the game.

Returning to Adelaide Fringe for the second time, Eyrie Improv has curated a rotating cast of glamorous local and interstate performers – none of whom know which song they will perform to, or even where they are on the line up. On the night I attended, I was dazzled and delighted by cast members Blake Cassette, Dutchess Laven Dear, Ember Rose, Peyton James, Mya Dia Monte and of course, Empress Eyrie herself. Each artist listed is a powerhouse in their own right, and while styles and costumes varied, performances were consistently top-notch. Burlesque is often much harder than it looks, and each artist delivered their improvised routines with enthusiasm, skill and unbridled confidence.

In all her vibrant glory, our stunning and feisty hostess Empress Eyrie presents two sequinned hats to the audience. Once is purple (allegedly) with the names of performers inside. The other is red and contains a jumble of eclectic tracks pre-selected by Eyrie Improv’s followers and some sadistic audience members.  The lucky audience member who picks the song can choose to be merciful and give the randomly selected performer a heads up. Or, they can choose to ‘troll’ and give no warning whatsoever.

In this audience, every single person chose to troll, making for a highly entertaining, unpredictable and lively show. Empress Eyrie, as a highly skilled MC, weaved deftly through the chaos with a seductively firm grip. Performers bumped and grinded their hearts out to an unlikely mix of Wet Leg, Crazy Frog and gangsta rap. Tipping dollars were stuffed into g-strings and merkins. I was personally motor-boated twice which, for me at least, is a sign of a fantastic and highly enjoyable burlesque show.

If you’re a fan of Whose Line Is It Anyway? and a connoisseur of striptease, this is probably the show for you! No two performances of Eyrie Improv are alike, and I look forward to seeing what sensual and silly mayhem arises in the next two shows.

Four stars

Friday 27 February, Saturday 28 February and Friday 6 March

Nineteen Ten

R18+

Tickets available here

Reviewed by Phoebe M.